Old formula, clever comedy

School for Scoundrels is a straightforward contemporary comedy: dexterous characters, genuinely hilarious moments and a few fascinating plot twists. It's the furthermost thing from an evocative, profoundly thought-provoking experience; however if you enjoy quality comedy with a number of pleasant laughs then this is undeniably a film to rent. I had elevated expectations for this film, particularly due to the cast. Jon Heder from Napoleon Dynamite, Billy Bob Thornton from Bad Santa, as well as a minor role portrayed by Ben Stiller. The plot also operates on an appealing premise of a battle of wits concerning two characters. Don't anticipate some form of masterpiece. Instead, settle down to watch School for Scoundrels with refreshments; assuming an undemanding, light-hearted comedy flick encompassing masses of merriment.

School for Scoundrels is a remake of an old 1960s film of the same name. The plot suitably mirrors said original film, logically enough. Roger Wadell (Heder) is a beleaguered, underachieving New York City meter maid inundated with countless issues of trepidation and a shockingly depleted level of confidence. One of Roger's friends wishes to assist him in overcoming his feelings of meagreness, and encourages him to enrol in a highly confidential school conceived to help people build confidence. This school is run by the dastardly Dr. P (Thornton). He's aided by the intimidating Lesher (Duncan) as he unleashes his sometimes dangerous methods of developing confidence in his students. Dr. P's goal is to encourage his students to consider themselves as lions in an animal kingdom - and it's a battle to become the leader of the pack. Soon enough, Roger's level of confidence begins to elevate and he finally becomes assertive enough to get involved with long-time crush: his Australian neighbour Amanda (Barrett). Roger is the stand-out student in Dr. P's class, but this prompts Dr. P to employ a more unorthodox method of instilling additional confidence: destroying Roger's professional and personal life. Through the eyes of Dr. P nothing is too far. Alas, an elaborate battle of wits emerges between the two men.

School for Scoundrels may seem like your standard, average contemporary comedy made for a quick buck. However, this film isn't as terrible as one would be expecting. The major stand-out is the solid script held together by a stellar cast and an able director (Todd Phillips, who also helmed Starsky and Hutch). Like all modern comedies, the film is skilfully made and unproblematic to watch. The film lacks laughs in the first half, but then things start looking up into the second half. There are loads of hysterically funny moments to witness during the film's second half. These laughs are slow to get going...nevertheless the wait is definitely worth it. Prepare to be laughing uncontrollably. I will admit that the film is slightly formulaic and clichéd. Then again, the film isn't as clichéd as I was expecting. Surprisingly, the screenplay manages to avoid succumbing to some clichés and still contains a hint of unpredictability.

The characters seem to be nothing more than a bunch of worn stereotypes; however despite the shallow material the cast pull off their roles excellently. Billy Bob Thornton, as always, accomplishes his role with tremendous skill. He plays one heck of an arrogant bloke, though. He suits the role: charming but deceptive. Of course, Jon Heder is another great addition to the cast. Heder is certainly entertaining enough to cover up many shortcomings in the script. Ben Stiller has a small role, but he's extremely memorable. Just his facial expressions had me in stitches, let alone his hilarious voice. Jacinda Barrett and Michael Clarke Duncan are also very talented in their roles.

Overall, School for Scoundrels is a simple comedy that makes for highly enjoyable viewing. Sometimes it's extremely clichéd; however the film is bright enough to maintain your interest throughout the running time. Although critics generally panned the movie, I unquestionably recommend it for a pleasant night of satisfying laughs and interesting characters. Reasonably forgettable, but still a lot of fun.

6.9/10